Eggplant Vs Plum Color

So the other day, I’m standing in the produce aisle, staring at an eggplant and a plum like they’re about to reveal the secrets of the universe. I mean, look at them—both are that deep, moody purple, but they’re clearly not the same color, right? It got me wondering: when we say “eggplant” or “plum” as a color, what are we even talking about? Let’s dive into this fruity confusion together, shall we?

My grandma once told me to pick the “purple-est” plums for her jam, and I grabbed an eggplant by mistake. The look she gave me could’ve curdled milk. That’s the moment I realized: eggplant is a dark, almost blackish-purple with a hint of brown, while plum is lighter, warmer, and leans toward red. It’s like comparing a midnight sky to a sunset—both beautiful, but worlds apart.

The Color Showdown: Eggplant vs. Plum

Let’s break it down like we’re at a paint store, but way more fun. Eggplant is that brooding, smoky purple that absorbs light—think of a velvet cape in a gothic novel. It’s deep, rich, and has a tiny bit of gray or brown in its undertones, which makes it feel earthy and mysterious. You know, like that friend who’s always saying profound things at 2 AM?

Plum, on the other hand, is the extrovert of the purple family. It’s brighter, juicier, and has a pinkish or reddish glow that practically screams “summer.” Ever seen a plum that’s so ripe it looks almost magenta? That’s the vibe. If eggplant is a philosophy professor, plum is that friend who drags you to a karaoke bar.

Why Does This Even Matter?

Because the wrong shade can ruin your entire outfit, that’s why! I once wore a “plum” scarf to a party and my friend said, “Nice eggplant—wait, no, is that eggplant?” The confusion was real. The difference isn’t just for art snobs; it’s for anyone who’s ever stood in front of a mirror and thought, “Why does this look so… sad?”

Behr Exotic Eggplant vs. Benjamin Moore Carter Plum comparison

Here’s the trick: plum is your go-to for a pop of color that’s playful but not too loud—think a handbag or a pair of shoes. Eggplant is your power move for a sleek, sophisticated look—like a blazer or a dress for a fancy dinner. Pair them together? Only if you’re feeling really brave, because that contrast can be stunning or a total mess. (I tried it once. Let’s just say my mirror didn’t approve.)

Real Life Examples (Because We’re Practical People)

Look at your phone’s wallpaper. If it’s a deep, almost black purple that feels heavy, that’s eggplant. If it’s a lighter, reddish-purple that reminds you of a berry smoothie, congrats—you’re rocking plum. Go ahead, check right now. I’ll wait.

For home decor: an eggplant accent wall makes a room feel like a cozy cave—perfect for a library or a moody bedroom. A plum wall? That’s more of a “let’s throw a dinner party” energy, with a hint of romance. Choose wrong, and your living room might look like a grape explosion. Not ideal.

Benjamin Moore Eggplant vs. Benjamin Moore Plum Raisin comparison

The Science of Purple (Just a Little)

I went down a rabbit hole on color theory, and here’s the nerd part: eggplant has a higher concentration of blue and black pigments, while plum has more red and white. That’s why plum feels “warmer” and eggplant feels “colder.” But honestly? Your brain just knows when something’s off. You ever see a “plum” lipstick that looks gray on your lips? That’s the eggplant undertones betraying you.

Don’t get me started on marketing. Brands call anything “plum” to sound tasty and “eggplant” to sound exotic. I bought a “plum” sweater online once—arrived looking like a bruised banana. Trust your eyes, not the label.

How to Tell Them Apart (Without a Fruit in Hand)

Hold up a purple object against a white piece of paper. If it looks almost black or has a smoky haze, it’s eggplant. If it has a visible pink or red shimmer, it’s plum. Another trick: compare it to a bottle of red wine. Eggplant is like a full-bodied cabernet (dark, serious); plum is like a rosé (bright, fun). Science? No. Life hacks? Yes.

Eggplant Grape Color at Ella Dierking blog

And if you’re still lost, just call it “dark purple” and save everyone the headache. But where’s the fun in that? I say embrace the nuance. Next time you’re out shopping, drop a casual, “Oh, I’m torn between the eggplant and the plum.” People will think you’re a color connoisseur. You’re welcome.

Final Thoughts (Because We’re Friends Now)

Look, at the end of the day, both colors are gorgeous in their own way. Eggplant is the color of a quiet, contemplative night. Plum is the color of a sunset that won’t quit. Just don’t confuse them when you’re painting your bathroom or buying a dress for a wedding—unless you want to be the talk of the party. And not in a good way.

So go ahead: eat an eggplant, snack on a plum, and maybe even paint a room. Just remember: one is for brooding, the other is for celebrating. And if you ever see me in the produce aisle, staring at fruit like it’s a Rorschach test, give me a wave. I’m probably still figuring it out, too.